Lexus Mulls EV, Fuel Cell Variants

Plug-in hybrid, full-electric and fuel cell variants are all “on the table,” LS chief engineer Toshio Asahi tells GoAuto. He says any of the alternative powertrains could be added to the fifth-generation LS, which debuted last autumn.

The LS currently offers two powertrains, including a hybrid system that teams a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor and multi-stage continuously variable transmission. The base engine is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 that makes 415 hp. Asahi hinted that upgrades to these engines also are in the works.

Lexus introduced the fuel cell-powered LF-FC concept car in 2015 and last year trademarked the name “LS-FC Concept.” Toyota’s Mirai car is one of only three fuel cell models currently in production.

In December Toyota announced plans to offer plug-in hybrid or full-electric versions of all its models (including Lexus’ lineup of luxury cars and crossovers) by 2025.